SETU celebrates a gathering of nations with Ambassadorial reception

Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) welcomed ambassadors and delegates from six embassies to SETU’s West Campus in Carriganore on Friday, 19 September.

Delegations from Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, the People’s Republic of China, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom met with Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, Dr Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute, SETU, and Dr Patricia Mulcahy, Vice President Global Partnerships, SETU. 

Also in attendance was Conor D. McGuinness TD, Sinn Féin spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Community Development, and An Ghaeltacht, alongside senior colleagues from the University.

The diplomatic visit coincided with the Waterford City Region Advantage Dinner, organised by Waterford Chamber of Commerce, which promotes national and international trade, investment, and collaboration opportunities for the region.

SETU has over 300 partnership agreements with universities across Europe and the globe.

Extending a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, Prof. Veronica Campbell said:

“Your presence here today reflects the enduring importance of international cooperation in education, research, and innovation. Under the leadership of Dr Kevin Doolin, Walton Institute has become an internationally recognised centre of excellence in ICT research and innovation, working with partners in more than 45 countries. Today’s reception provides a valuable opportunity to share our pioneering research with a global audience.

“Equally, SETU’s Global Partnerships team, led by Dr Patricia Mulcahy, has built an excellent track record in student recruitment, partnership development, and intercultural engagement. Together, they foster a vibrant international network of collaborators who share SETU’s values and vision.

“With almost €13 million secured to date through Horizon Europe, SETU is proud to be Ireland’s leading technological university for research funding. A success Walton Institute plays a central role in.”

Walton Institute, the ICT research institute in SETU, has collaborated with over 800 partners worldwide on projects valued at €480m, with Walton Institute having secured €148m in research funding to date. The visit emphasised the University’s EU and global partnerships as well as its focus on developing links with countries outside the EU.

Speaking during the reception, Dr Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute, outlined Walton’s impact on ICT research to the honorary guests. 

“Walton Institute has always prided itself on its global outlook and strong international collaborations. Our success in securing Horizon Europe funding reflects both our research excellence and our ability to connect innovators across continents. With more countries now eligible to participate in European funding programmes, we’re excited to further strengthen international relationships and deliver impactful, world-class research with new partners."

During the event guests explored pioneering ICT research in smart energy, future networks, health innovation, agri-tech, artificial intelligence, and quantum communications. 

SETU also marked the occasion with the publication of its Global Engagement Strategic Plan, ‘Global Minds, Global and Local Impact’ 2024–2028. This plan sets out a university-wide vision for internationalisation, spanning students, graduates, staff, research, teaching, partnerships, and reputation. It commits SETU to attracting global talent, enriching the global student experience, deepening international collaborations, embedding global perspectives across all activities, and further strengthening the University’s international profile. 

Commenting on the publication, Dr Patricia Mulcahy, Vice President Global Partnerships, said, “SETU is already building a remarkable international footprint, and over the course of this plan we will deepen and expand those connections and their impactfulness. This plan aims to ensure that SETU’s global reach delivers real benefits for the SETU community, the South East region, Ireland, and its many international partners across the world.”

The reception concluded with music from SETU students Ellen and Kate Harrison, who performed an exquisite selection on fiddle and harp for the visiting dignitaries.